The run started with a good array of fireworks display. Most of the route was not marked, and more than once the conversations with fellow runners were 'how far are we now?'. As I am a slow runner, when I got to the first water station, they were out of water. Luckily I ran with a bottle of water, so it's fine. When I reached the second station, the runners were thirsty and went straight to the water stacks and grabbed bottles of water to go. I helped myself to two bottles too :) This is a mid level challenging course due to the slopes of the bridge, the humid weather, the unmarked course, and the some hiccups with water supply initially. Despite the drawbacks, I actually enjoyed the run. The town is scenic and people are friendly. It has a laid back charm. Drop by for a race if you're nearby and thinking of a relaxing holiday.

After the logistical nightmare of 2014, this year the marathon was back on the First Bridge. Packet pickup at Queensbay Mall is quick. There is no expo. Start at 01:30 is good so you are avoiding the sun, but, the downside is there are no supporters. There was a band on the bridge, and I think I heard music a couple more times. There are no start corrals, and all the pacers start up front. The pacers did not do a good job with finishing in their goal time. No official photographer. Route is a bit boring: you run over major roads and make three turns. Then again, what really can you see anyway in the dark? It is unique to run over the bridge, and hope there will be a breeze, because the humidity makes this a tough run. Plenty of water and food along the route. First water stop at 5k, second at 10k, and thereafter became more frequent. Lots of salonpas and ice available on the route. Distance markers were not obvious. The first one I saw was at 5k and no timing was provided except at the finish line. Shuttle from Komtar was quick and efficient. I heard people had trouble parking at or near Queensbay Mall, so I was happy I used the shuttle, especially because my hotel was just a few blocks from Komtar. If you are in the area on race day, go run it. But don't travel there just for the marathon.

The 2014 Inaugural Penang's Second Bridge Marathon was hailed the World's Longest Bridge Marathon & Biggest Running Event in M'sia w 62,000 runners. The Bad Points: It was a monotonous 'U-turn' type of FM in the middle of the night 1.30am that had little street support. There was no timing pens to allow the faster runners first, resulting in obstruction by slower runners at the first 3-4km up slope to the crest of the cable-stayed bridge. Towards the last 10km of the FM, there was again bottleneck with the slower runners of the HM group (who were flagged off later) heading to the same finishing point. Distance markers were also not clearly visible thru most of the run. The Good Points: A lot of support by State Govt with the Chief Minister coming personally half hour earlier with an official marathon song & a keg of fireworks for flag off. Free shuttle buses plied round Penang island & stopped along many hotels to ferry runners to Queensway Mall nearer to the start point, where buses drove runners to the start point. The free pick up after the marathon was smooth & from the finish point, & road closures & opening were orderly. The course was straight, breezy and with good hydration support. There was no shortage of drinks stations, first aid points and at least 4 portable toilet areas along the bridge. The drinks and banana/bread/energy bars stations were frequent and adequate. There were at least two areas where water sprays & cold water sponges were handed out to runners. Overall, an easy & enjoyable run with little distraction. Also once runners sees the multicolored cable stayed bridge again on the return leg, they could sprint the last 3km down slope to end point.